SALT LAKE CITY (AP) Utah coach Kyle Whittingham has raised the possibility of Dominique Hatfield returning to the football team now that charges against the cornerback have been dropped.

The junior was dismissed after he was charged last week with aggravated robbery and theft. Prosecutors dropped criminal charges Thursday but say they could refile altered charges.

Whittingham said in a statement Friday he is "relieved" Hatfield has been exonerated, but that "does not necessarily impact" the disciplinary actions taken for his violation of team rules. The coach adds there is the "possibility of future reinstatement" if he meets "certain expectations."